Here’s How Much You Should Contribute to a Wedding Registry
Not sure what the appropriate wedding gift amount is for your upcoming attendance? We got you covered.
Navigating the realm of wedding gift-giving can be challenging, especially when it comes to determining how much to contribute. While there are no hard and fast rules, it's helpful to consider your relationship with the happy couple, your financial situation, and the general etiquette surrounding wedding gifts. In this guide, we'll explore the appropriate amount to either give as a cash gift or use towards a wedding present for various relationships and occasions, including weddings, bridal showers, engagement parties, and more. (These are just average contribution amounts, and are not a minimum or maximum, simply a guideline.) Let's dive in!
Wedding Registry contribution Amounts
Close Friend or Family Member
When you're a close friend or family member, you likely share a deep bond with the couple. For a wedding gift, a generous amount would typically range between $100 and $250, depending on your budget. Be sure to consult the couple’s wedding registry for physical gift ideas, or you can opt for a gift card or cash wedding gift that you simply include with your wedding card.
Coworker or Distant Relative
For coworkers or distant relatives, a good rule of thumb is to give a gift in the range of $50 to $100. You may want to consult your financial situation and relationship with the couple when deciding on the appropriate amount. But wedding gift etiquette is to spend as much as the couple is spending to host you. So it might be worth looking up the average cost for a wedding in your area to get a feel for what that might be.
Engagements and Shower Gifts
Engagement parties and bridal showers are separate occasions where gifts are customary. A gift amount between $50 and $100 is generally considered appropriate for these events. If you attend both, you can consider combining the amounts for a more substantial gift.
Destination Weddings
When the couple plans a destination wedding, it's common for wedding guests to incur additional expenses. In this case, you can contribute an amount similar or slightly less than what you would give for a regular wedding gift. However, some guests opt to contribute towards the newlywed’s honeymoon fund or assist with specific travel expenses. (If it’s a costly destination and the couple isn’t assisting, just being there is enough of a financial commitment. I thoughtful card or a small gift is plenty.)
Wedding Party and Bridesmaids/Groomsmen
If you're part of the wedding party, your presence and assistance in wedding planning are significant gifts in themselves. And you’re likely already incurring costs with the bachelor/bachelorette party and more. However, it's still customary to offer a gift to the couple. A gift in the range of $75 to $150 is generally appropriate for members of the wedding party.
Group Gifts
In some cases, guests may choose to pool their resources for a group gift. This allows for a more substantial gift without individual financial strain. If you're participating in a group gift, anywhere from $25 to $300 (or more, depending on the group size) is appropriate.
Wedding Season and Your Financial Situation
How much to give for a wedding gift is entirely dependent on your financial situation. While there are customary ranges, there’s no rule that says you have to spend a minimum amount. It's essential to consider your overall financial situation, including any travel expenses or other financial obligations. Don't feel pressured to stretch your budget beyond your means. The couple will appreciate your presence and well wishes, regardless of the gift amount.
Remember, these guidelines are not strict rules but rather general suggestions. If you have questions about specific circumstances or need additional guidance, consult reputable wedding etiquette experts or online resources such as The Knot. Additionally, some weddings may include an FAQ section on the wedding invitation or wedding website, providing specific gift-giving preferences or guidance.
When it comes to wedding gift contributions, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Consider your relationship to the couple, your financial situation, and any specific circumstances surrounding the wedding. Ultimately, the most important aspect is to offer a gift from the heart, showcasing your support and love for the happy couple on their big day.